Parade to be held for Kyron, local athletes

McMaster at the 2018 Commonwealth Games in Australia. (BBC photo)

Government is gearing up to pay tribute in a major way to local sensation Kyron McMaster and other athletes for their performance at this year’s Commonwealth Games in Gold Coast, Australia.

Director of the Department of Youth Affairs and Sports, Brenda Lettsome-Tye said plans are being fine-tuned for a motorcade, a parade, and a prize-giving ceremony for the athletes on June 14.

“We are making preparations to welcome our athletes and we want the cooperation of everyone to make them feel special as they are deserving of this tribute,” she said.

According to Lettsome-Tye, the territory will be notified as preparations develop.

“Once again, we are counting on their support to make this event a memorable one, not only for our athletes but for the history of the Virgin Islands”.

Meanwhile, Minister responsible for sports, Myron Walwyn has described the honour as fitting.

“I am happy to see the positive results of the efforts shown by our local athletes during the Commonwealth Games, and other athletic events,” the minister said.

“These athletes are ambassadors of our country, and it is for this reason that I believe it is fitting for this community to celebrate our athletes/ambassadors in a most worthy manner”.

McMaster made the British Virgin Islands proud when he won a historic gold medal in the Men’s 400-metre hurdles at the Commonwealth Games this month.

McMaster is the first athlete to ever win a medal at the Games.

The BVI also received strong representation from other local athletes – five of whom made it to the finals of their respective events.

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